Brad Lander Joins Congressional Race Against Dan Goldman

Former City Comptroller Brad Lander, an ally of Zoran Mamdani, is entering the race for Congress, seeking to challenge two-term Manhattan Borough President Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.), as confirmed by The Post.

In an email sent to supporters on Tuesday, Lander emphasized his commitment to fighting for undocumented immigrants at 26 Federal Plaza, recalling his clashes with the Trump administration. This included his arrest in September for allegedly obstructing ICE operations.

The message concluded with a rallying cry: “It’s time to fight, not fold,” which encapsulates Lander’s approach to the campaign.

The letter also mentioned that Lander had endorsed Mamdani during their Democratic primary for mayor in June, a strategic partnership that likely helped both candidates in the ranked-choice vote.

A kickoff event for Lander’s campaign was slated for Wednesday evening.

Despite previous tensions, Mamdani is reportedly expected to back Lander’s congressional bid, with others anticipating that the progressive challenger will also enter next year’s race.

Lander, who previously served on the Brooklyn City Council, had been eyeing a prominent role in the next City Hall administration. However, Mamdani grew wary of Lander’s self-promotion since taking office, according to those familiar with the situation.

The far-left Queens congressman wasn’t fully convinced by Lander’s portrayal of himself as a champion of good governance, judging that he hadn’t quite lived up to that image.

According to Politico, Lander’s entry into the race against Goldman was first reported recently.

Kingston City Councilwoman and fellow Democratic Socialists of America member Alexa Aviles is also contemplating a challenge to Goldman.

Goldman, who is part of the Levi Strauss family, secured his Congressional seat in 2022, emerging victorious from a fiercely contested primary. He represents the 10th Congressional District, covering lower Manhattan and parts of Brooklyn.